The Antwerp man who harassed footballer Kevin De Bruyne has been sentenced to a suspended prison term and fined. This case, which concluded on 2025-06-25 15:05:00, has drawn attention across Belgium due to the unusual nature of the harassment and the profile of the victim.
- Antwerp man sentenced for harassing De Bruyne
- Man claimed healing powers for footballer
- Repeatedly appeared at De Bruyne's home
- Sent letters to Kevin De Bruyne
- Also harassed woman with connective tissue disease
- Received 10 months suspended sentence and fine
The 78-year-old man, who called himself a “medicine man,” claimed he could heal De Bruyne’s injuries with his special gift. He repeatedly showed up at De Bruyne’s home in Heusden-Zolder and sent him letters, causing distress to the football star and his family. The man also bothered a woman from Beringen suffering from a connective tissue disease.
What does this verdict mean for public figures in Belgium facing similar harassment? And how can victims protect themselves from such persistent intrusions? The details below offer clarity.
This case raises important questions about the protection of public figures and vulnerable individuals in Belgium. How should the justice system balance leniency with deterrence? The sentence reflects a cautious approach but signals that harassment will not be tolerated.
- The man’s self-proclaimed healing abilities did not excuse his repeated harassment.
- De Bruyne’s privacy was invaded at his home in Heusden-Zolder.
- The victimization extended beyond the footballer to a woman with a serious illness.
- The suspended sentence suggests judicial recognition of the offender’s age but also the seriousness of his actions.
As this verdict sets a precedent, Belgian authorities and communities must remain vigilant. How can we better support victims and prevent such cases? Increased awareness and legal safeguards will be crucial moving forward.
